Fried Oysters Wrapped in Bacon

Elegant prelude to any meal

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 2
• Yields: 12 oysters

Ingredients

• 12  fresh, shucked  oysters (, , in a jar)
• 2  fluid ounces  oyster liquor (from jar)
• 1  bay leaf
• 1  teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2  cups  oil (for frying)
• 4  slices lean bacon
• 4  ounces unbleached white flour
• 2  eggs, beaten
• 1  cup  breadcrumbs

Directions

1. In a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, poach oysters in oyster liquor with bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce (about 2 minutes, until the edges of the oysters curl).
2. Remove oysters from liquid and set aside.
3. Discard liquid.
4. Cut bacon strips in thirds.
5. Wrap each oyster with bacon and fasten with a toothpick.
6. Roll in flour, dip in eggs, and then roll in breadcrumbs.
7. Heat oil in a 9-inch skillet.
8. When oil smokes, reduce heat and fry oysters for 5 minutes.
9. Serve immediately.